MASOOR DAL TADKA

Masoor dal tadka is a popular dal in India and one of the easiest to make. The tadka (tempering), is a combination of Indian spices which are fried and immediately poured over the lentils to infuse the flavours. As the lentils cook, they turn yellow and have a wonderful earthy flavour. Serve this with hot jeera rice.

INGREDIENTS:

Red Lentil/ Masoor dal - 1/2 cup

Tomato - 1 Coriander leaves - 2 tbsp

Cumin seeds - 1/2 tsp

Ghee - 2 tbsp Curry leaves

Ginger - 1/2 inch piece

Asafoetida - pinch Green chili - 1

Coriander powder - 1 tsp

Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp Red chili powder - 1/4 tsp
Salt to taste

METHOD:

1. In a cooker add 2 tsp ghee. When it comes hot, add cumin seeds, turmeric powder, coriander powder, finely chopped green chili, finely chopped ginger and curry leaves. Roast it slightly.

2. Now add finely chopped tomato. Cook the tomatoes until mashy.

3. When ghee starts separating add masoor dal. Mix well and roast the dal with spices for 1 minute.

4. Add 2 cup water and mix well.

5. Add pinch of red chili powder and salt to taste. Mix well.

6. Close the cooker and cook the dal for 3 to 4 whistle. Turn off the flame.

7. When the pressure releases naturally, open the cooker.

8. Add finely chopped coriander to dal and mix.

9. For tempering: Heat 1 tsp ghee to the pan. Add 1/4 tsp cumin seeds, pinch of asafeotida, 2 red chili and curry leaves. Slightly roast them. Turn off the flame. Add some red chili to it. Pour the tadka over the dal.

6. Yummy Masoor Dal Tadka is ready to be served. You can serve this dal with chapati, paratha, naan or jeera rice.